The Tabernacle, as described in the Old Testament, served as the portable earthly dwelling place of God among the Israelites during their journey through the wilderness. The court of the Tabernacle was an integral part of this sacred structure, delineating a holy space where the Israelites could approach God through prescribed rituals and sacrifices.

Structure and Materials

The court of the Tabernacle was a rectangular enclosure, measuring approximately 100 cubits in length and 50 cubits in width (Exodus 27:18). It was surrounded by curtains made of fine twisted linen, which were suspended from pillars. These curtains were designed to create a boundary between the sacred space of the Tabernacle and the surrounding camp of the Israelites.

The linen curtains were 5 cubits high, providing a sense of separation and sanctity. The use of fine linen is significant, as it symbolizes purity and righteousness, qualities that are essential in the worship of a holy God. The pillars from which the curtains were suspended were made of acacia wood, overlaid with bronze, and set in bronze bases (Exodus 27:10-11). Each pillar was topped with a silver capital, and silver hooks and bands were used to hold the curtains in place.

Entrances and Layout

The court had a single entrance on the east side, which was 20 cubits wide. This entrance was covered by a screen of blue, purple, and scarlet yarn, and fine twisted linen, the same materials used in the Tabernacle's inner curtains (Exodus 27:16). The colors and materials of the entrance screen were significant, representing the majesty and holiness of God.

Inside the court, the Tabernacle itself was situated towards the western end, with the altar of burnt offering and the bronze basin placed in front of it. The altar was used for sacrifices, while the basin was for the priests to wash their hands and feet before performing their duties (Exodus 30:18-21).

Symbolism and Function

The court of the Tabernacle served as a transitional space between the secular and the sacred. It was a place where the Israelites could come to offer sacrifices and seek atonement for their sins. The design and materials of the court emphasized the holiness and separateness of God, while also providing a means for His people to approach Him.

The use of fine linen, bronze, and silver in the construction of the court highlighted the importance of purity, judgment, and redemption in the worship of God. The court's layout and the positioning of its elements were divinely ordained, reflecting the order and precision of God's instructions to Moses on Mount Sinai (Exodus 25:9).

Biblical References

The detailed instructions for the construction of the Tabernacle and its court are found in the book of Exodus, particularly in chapters 25 through 40. Key passages include:

· Exodus 27:9-19: "You are also to construct the courtyard for the Tabernacle. The south side shall be 100 cubits long and have curtains of finely twisted linen, with twenty posts and twenty bronze bases, and with silver hooks and bands on the posts."
· Exodus 38:9-20: This passage provides a summary of the construction of the court, including the materials used and the dimensions of the various components.

The court of the Tabernacle, with its fine linen curtains and bronze pillars, served as a constant reminder to the Israelites of the holiness of God and the need for purity and reverence in their worship. Through the sacrifices offered in this sacred space, the people of Israel could maintain their covenant relationship with the Lord, who dwelled among them in the Tabernacle.Exodus 27:9-15
And you shall make the court of the tabernacle: for the south side southward there shall be hangings for the court of fine twined linen of an hundred cubits long for one side:
Torrey's Topical Textbook

Exodus 38:9-16
And he made the court: on the south side southward the hangings of the court were of fine twined linen, an hundred cubits:
Torrey's Topical Textbook

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